Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labor in the word and doctrine. I Timothy 5:17 KJV

Bro. Chad Johnson

The subject of money and how much an elder or pastor should make is a touchy subject. Most people think that preachers are just in it for the money. The sad thing is, that this is very true.

I know that the average preacher today looks at the ministry as a career, not a calling. The proof I have that this is true is how watered down and weak the pulpits have become. They (the pastors) know that if they really preached and practiced the Bible, their church would not have it or them. A pastor who preaches to preach again and avoids all conflict is a hireling.

Also, I know some who have a front of being a pastor, but have little or no biblical content in their sermons.

Out text tells us first that elders should rule well. The word rule does not mean to lord over or to be in complete control. It means to stand before as an example and to lead, not drive the flock of God. I know men who abuse their power in the gospel and rule the people with a rod of iron. They type of pastor needs to be rebuked and replaced.

Our text also says they that labor in the word. If a man in preaching and pastoring for gain and not God, he has a road of ease in this life. However, if a man is true and labors in the word and leads the church according to the scriptures, he has the hardest tasks on earth.

Study of the word of God takes time and labor. I know of preachers that read a verse of scripture and never say one thing about it. They have not studied, they have run all day and are just going through the motions. The elders’ job is to teach the word and doctrine, if he preaches whatever comes to his mind, he is not worthy of double honor, he is worthy of no honor. A preacher who labors and rules well should be paid well.

He should not ask for things, but he should let God lead the church in these things. Even if a pastor is bi-vocational, he should still be supported in some degree by the church.

If you have a pastor who rules well and labors in the word and doctrine, love him well, pay him well and God will bless you. Amen.

For pulpit supply or Bible conferences, write to:

Bro. Chad Johnson

897 Sycamore-Duncan Road

Auburn, KY 42206